The summit, which is sponsored by the NFPA and SAE, is the latest example of ANSI members collaborating to further safety through the effective use of standards. Through the summit, the organizations aim to support the rapid implementation of electrical and hybrid-electric vehicles in the U.S., and to assure that fire and electrical safety standards for electrical vehicles are aligned.
The event will be held over the course of two days. On the first day, attendees will hear presentations on topics including plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) and battery electric vehicles (BEVs), electric infrastructure, and first responders, and how they relate to safety standards impacting electrical vehicles. A group discussion and gap analysis will follow the presentations.
On the second day, representatives from key stakeholder groups will regroup to form breakout sessions on specific topic areas in order to develop action plans to address gaps between each topic area.
"Preparing for the growing number of hybrid-electric and electric vehicles arriving on U.S. roads in the next few years requires an understanding of how fire and electrical safety standards apply to them and how they may need to be adapted to support specific needs of the auto industry, while ensuring that safety is addressed," said Christian Dubay, P.E., NFPA vice president codes and standards and chief engineer. "The knowledge shared at this summit will guide the future of codes and standards for electric vehicles and their supporting infrastructure."
"Introducing plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and battery electric vehicles within an established infrastructure requires a prudent deployment of standards and strategies by all stakeholders," said Dave Baxter, SAE Motor Vehicle Council chair. "SAE is pleased to collaborate with NFPA in hosting a summit that brings together key stakeholders to identify the necessary standards development activities and associated deployment strategies."
For more information, see the NFPA news release.